Latest news with #RasAlKhaimah
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
Top summer picks: UAE's most promising investment hotspots for 2025
While the UAE's real estate market remains active year‑round — with transactions totalling over AED239 billion (approximately $65 billion) in Q1 2024 — summer is now shining a spotlight on a handful of strategic locations that have long-term value, vision, and seasonal appeal. From branded beachfront escapes to smart city zones on the rise, Whitewill unveils the top six destinations making waves with investors this summer. Dubai Creek Harbour Demand is rising for communities that combine prestige, proximity, and waterfront serenity, and Dubai Creek Harbour checks all those boxes. Known for its elegant skyline and seamless access to Downtown Dubai, it's a favourite for buyers seeking a premium lifestyle with investment upside. The star feature here is its master-planned waterfront living, enhanced by green spaces and direct views of the Dubai Creek Tower. Waterfront apartments start at AED 1.45M, while luxury villas exceed AED 5M. With rental yields of 6–6.8% and consistent appreciation, it balances luxury with long-term potential. Albero at Green Gate by AHAD — a development that is a low-rise sanctuary within a high-rise zone, offers landscaped privacy, smart layouts, and end-user appeal. Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah With more investors prioritising coastal living, Al Marjan Island is experiencing a surge in demand, especially with the upcoming Wynn Resort transforming the area into a hospitality hub. It has direct beachfront access and the rare opportunity to own a branded residence beside a future gaming and entertainment destination. Apartments begin at AED 585K, with ultra-luxury homes priced up to AED 30M+. Offering 8–9%+ rental yields and over 20% YoY appreciation in some pockets, this hotspot appeals to both short-term and capital-growth investors. SORA by AARK exemplifies the trend with hotel-style amenities, sea views, and curated interiors. Business Bay In a market where short-term rental returns drive demand, Business Bay continues to attract buyers looking for income-generating assets in the city centre. Its strongest draw is the fusion of location and luxury, with proximity to DIFC and Downtown Dubai, with Dubai Canal weaving its way through. Studios and 1–2BR apartments average AED 1.4M, delivering 6–7% yields and strong resale demand. Among standout offerings is the Waldorf Astoria Residences — a branded address that blends high-end services with everyday practicality, offering residents a globally recognised standard of living. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Buyers this summer are eyeing Yas Island for its unique blend of leisure, family appeal, and short-stay rental potential. The island's standout quality lies in its lifestyle proposition, from theme parks and golf to marinas and cultural hotspots, all within a well-planned residential setting. Villas average AED 4.5M, with apartments priced between AED 1.2M and AED 3.8M. Yields sit at a steady 6.5–7%. For luxury seekers, Waldorf Astoria Yas Island offers waterfront tranquil and the backing of a premium hospitality brand, making it an attractive asset for both use and investment. Dubai South Investors are increasingly drawn to Dubai South for its affordability and alignment with the UAE's infrastructure vision. As a future-ready hub near the upcoming Al Maktoum Airport International Airport expansion, logistics hubs, and the Expo 2020 legacy infrastructure, its core appeal lies in early-mover advantage and the opportunity to ride the wave of long-term growth. There is a strong uptake in off-plan units starting at AED 800K, with a projected 15–25% value growth by 2030 and rental returns of 6–8%. Al Waha in Expo City exemplifies the area's appeal with a wellness-first, car-free community design in the city's innovation hub, tailored for a new generation of buyers. Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) Affordable, accessible, and increasingly design-driven, JVC remains a go-to for buyers seeking strong yields without compromising on lifestyle. The area's main pull is its ability to deliver rental income and resident satisfaction in equal measure. Apartments begin at AED 650K and entry-level villas at AED 1.6M, offering 7–8.6% yields. The district's consistent rental demand makes it ideal for first-time investors. Havelock Heights by HMB delivers boutique living with rooftop amenities and great rental potential, offering design-led quality at accessible entry points. Final Thoughts Overall, the market is favouring projects that combine lifestyle, location, and financial upside. While each area is unique, Al Marjan Island and Dubai South hold exceptional long-term promise. The former is becoming the UAE's entertainment capital with hospitality-led growth, while the latter is powered by airport expansion, creating a foundation for sustained capital growth and end-user migration. Both represent early-stage opportunities in rapidly maturing ecosystems—a perfect fit for investors with vision. While Dubai Creek Harbour and Yas Island remain strong lifestyle markets, the real long-term multiplier effect will come from assets in these high-conviction, underpenetrated districts where supply is still limited and strategic government investment is ongoing.
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE-based Digital Ink partners with AI specialist Smart Elephant to drive innovation across GCC and North America
Ras Al Khaimah-based Digital Ink, a leader in next-gen marketing, and UK-based Smart Elephant, an AI and development solutions specialist, have announced a strategic commercial partnership focusing on the GCC region and North America. The alliance will bring together creative strategic expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver more innovative, more impactful brand solutions. For the past two years, both companies have been active members of the Dscoop community, building relationships, sharing ideas, and discovering a mutual drive to improve things. 'We didn't stumble into this,' said Chris Minn, Founder and CEO of Digital Ink. 'Smart Elephant shares our hunger to challenge the status quo. I've always taken pride in being a positive disruptor, pushing boundaries, building value, and creating campaigns that move people. This partnership reflects that mindset only now; we're combining our energy with serious tech firepower.' This has been in the works for some time. 'Harrison Bailey, the founder of Smart Elephant and his team visited me in Dubai some months ago,' Minn added. 'We spent days mapping out how we could align our companies, our values, and our goals. This partnership isn't just strategic, it's intentional.' Smart Elephant brings more than technical power to the table; it brings vision. The company has made a name for itself by integrating rising student talent directly into real-world projects, offering a rare blend of cost-efficiency and future-ready thinking. 'It's a win-win,' said Harrison Bailey, Founder of Smart Elephant. Companies get access to the sharpest minds of tomorrow, and students get meaningful, career-shaping experience.' Bailey's connection to the Dscoop community deepened during his time as a Business Analyst intern, where he worked at the 2024 Indianapolis event and with the academia program. That experience helped shape the Smart Elephant ethos: invest in people, build boldly, and keep pushing forward. 'We have the technical expertise, proven methods, and scalable solutions across marketing automation and app development,' Bailey added. 'But what's exciting about this partnership is the chance to fuse that with bold creative energy. Together with Digital Inc., we're not just building smarter tools, we're creating experiences that truly connect.' The partnership will also focus on AI development and driving AI adoption across key industries. Initial efforts will center on innovation in the print sector, with a strategic expansion into education in the GCC a space both companies see as ripe for transformation. And there may be a small visual cue of this new alliance. 'When you see us operating in partnership with Digital Inc., you might notice our elephant has a slight orange tinge,' Bailey said. 'It's a subtle nod to our alignment and shared mission in those regions.' This collaboration marks more than growth; it signals a shared commitment to innovation, relevance, and results. Media Information: Howard Robinson Director - Astute E: howard@ W:
Gulf Business
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Here are the top 6 UAE property hotspots to invest in 2025
Image: Supplied Dubai's real estate market has maintained solid momentum into 2025, buoyed by steady population growth, economic diversification and robust investor demand. In Q1 alone, over 42,000 transactions worth around Dhs114bn were recorded — up roughly 23 percent year-on-year — while average residential prices rose about 5-6 per cent annually and villa prices nearly 8 per cent. Despite increasing new stock deliveries, rental rates have remained firm and foreign investment strong, reinforced by Dubai's no-income-tax policy and Golden Visa incentives . This stable backdrop sets the stage for the six key investment areas highlighted by real estate consultancy Whitewill for 2025. Based on market performance, pricing trends and rental yields, the consultancy's findings cover both established and developing areas across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. Dubai's key property hotspots Dubai Creek Harbour Dubai Creek Harbour remains in demand due to its proximity to Downtown Dubai, waterfront location, and planned green spaces. Apartments start from Dhs1.45m, with villas priced above Dhs5m. Yields range between 6 per cent and 6.8 per cent. Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah Interest in Al Marjan Island continues to rise, driven in part by the upcoming Wynn Resort and beachfront access. Apartments begin at Dhs585,000, with high-end properties exceeding Dhs30m. Annual rental yields are between 8 per cent and 9 per cent, and some areas have seen over 20 percent yearly appreciation. Read: Business Bay, Dubai Business Bay remains popular for investors focused on short-term rentals. The area is close to DIFC and Downtown Dubai, with the Dubai Canal running through it. Studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments average Dhs1.4m, with returns of 6 per cent to 7 per cent. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Yas Island is attracting buyers for its combination of leisure attractions and residential options. Villas average Dhs4.5m, and apartments range from Dhs1.2m to Dhs3.8m. Rental yields are steady at 6.5 per cent to 7 per cent. Dubai South Dubai South appeals to buyers looking for long-term growth and lower entry prices. The area is near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo 2020 infrastructure. Off-plan units start at Dhs800,000, with yields of 6 per cent to 8 per cent. Prices are expected to rise by 15 pe rcent to 25 per cent by 2030. Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) JVC continues to attract investors looking for affordable units with rental potential. Apartments start at Dhs650,000 and villas at Dhs1.6m. Rental yields are between 7 per cent and 8.6 per cent.
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
RAK Airport unveils new terminal to boost tourism as it eyes 3 million travellers
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has launched a significant expansion with a new 30,000 sqm terminal, adding to the existing Departure 4,933 sqm and Arrival 3,134 sqm terminals. Led by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation and the Airport's Board, the project is a strategic step toward establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a key aviation and tourism hub in the UAE. In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Sheikh Salem outlined the vision behind the development. The new terminal will feature advanced baggage handling systems, electronic gates, upgraded customs and police services, and enhanced passport control, all designed to improve the passenger experience significantly. A key objective of the expansion is to increase the airport's capacity to meet rising demand, particularly as new resorts and hotels emerge in destinations like Al Marjan Island. "We've opened tenders for a private aviation terminal, which will include dedicated hangars and aircraft parking areas to meet increasing demand from high-end travelers and private jet operators," Sheikh Salem revealed. This facility will operate separately from the main terminal and cater to the growing luxury travel segment. The terminal will also integrate the latest technologies and innovative services to offer a world-class travel experience. "The airport is the gateway to Ras Al Khaimah, and this expansion is central to the emirate's broader vision to grow its tourism and aviation sectors," he said. Construction of the terminal is expected to be completed by 2028. It is part of a broader strategic development plan involving local consultants and companies and is aligned with a privatisation initiative to enhance operational efficiency. The expansion isn't limited to passenger services. A new air cargo operator has already chosen RAK Airport as its regional base, completing over 100 freight flights transporting pharmaceuticals, livestock, and other goods. Plans are also in motion to establish an aircraft maintenance center, adding another layer to the airport's economic impact. "There's significant growth in both passenger traffic and cargo movement, and we're seeing an upward trend across all areas," Sheikh Salem added, emphasising the airport's growing role in supporting the emirate's economy. Eco-friendly technologies The new terminal will incorporate eco-friendly technologies such as energy-efficient LED lighting, geothermal heat pumps, and water recycling systems to support Ras Al Khaimah's sustainability goals. Sheikh Salem also announced that the terminal will become the first in the Middle East and wider Asia to implement DYNAES's thermodynamic energy efficiency solutions, marking a regional milestone in green airport infrastructure. The airport is home to several carriers, including Air Arabia, IndiGo, and Air India Express, with charter connections to Cairo, Jeddah, Pakistan, India, Moscow, and Prague. "We are in ongoing negotiations with more international carriers to increase connectivity to Ras Al Khaimah," Sheikh Salem said, noting a spike in demand from European markets ahead of new luxury developments. RAK Airport records 332,280 passengers According to recent open data, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport recorded 332,280 passengers in the first four months of 2025. It includes 164,691 arrivals, 144,045 departures, and 23,544 transit passengers. April posted the highest number of arrivals (46,841), and January saw the most transit activity (1446). In 2024, the airport saw a 28 per cent increase in arrivals compared to the previous year, bringing in more than 661,000 passengers, nearly double the 2022 figures. The surge is mainly attributed to improved flight connectivity and increased interest in the Emirates as a tourism destination. The airport aims to serve up to 3 million travellers in the coming years. "This is not just an expansion; it's a game-changer for Ras Al Khaimah. The airport will soon be a central gateway, connecting the world to the emirate's mountains, beaches, and luxury resorts," Sheikh Salem concluded.
Arabian Business
2 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
RAK Properties launches Solera apartment community in Downtown Mina District
RAK Properties, Ras Al Khaimah's publicly listed property developer, has announced the launch of Solera, an apartment community that will form part of the Downtown Mina district on Raha Island. The development comprises 451 units across three buildings connected by a shared podium. Solera represents the first community within RAK Properties' Downtown Mina district, which will eventually feature six residential communities upon completion. Solera: Downtown Mina debut Downtown Mina will provide access to retail and food and beverage destinations, landscaped parks, covered walkways, and community spaces as part of the wider Mina master plan. Apartments in Solera range from 386 to 3,104 square feet, with prices starting from AED768,000. The development includes a 40-metre infinity-edge lap pool, a children's pool and splash pad, and the Solera Flame Pavilion, an outdoor space with a barbecue kitchen. Additional facilities include a sculptural garden, telescope corner, hammock garden, skateboard park, and gymnasium. The NOOK, a social lounge and co-working space, will cater to remote workers and entrepreneurs. 'We are proud to launch Solera, the first chapter in the Downtown Mina story. With Solera, we are adding diversity to our product mix and creating new neighborhoods that add to Mina's overall character. As we continue to pursue the luxury segment elsewhere in our portfolio, Solera and Downtown Mina bring a whole new vibe to Ras Al Khaimah. Younger, edgier, and designed to appeal to work-from-anywhere professionals and entrepreneurs, Solera will contribute to the changing narrative around the Emirate as more and more investors see its real estate market appeal,' Sameh Muhtadi, Chief Executive Officer of RAK Properties said. 'As we reach the midpoint of our twentieth anniversary year, RAK Properties is making good progress with its 2025 product launch pipeline, a period in which we have launched Mirasol, SKAI, Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah Residences, and ENTA in partnership with Hive and A.R.M Holding. This is also a year in which we are focusing on delivery – with over 3,000 homes under construction, we are targeting the handover of more than 800 to customers this year. As attention continues to focus on the future opening of the Wynn Resort, we are well placed to deliver more homes in RAK before Q1 2027 than any other developer operating in the Emirate. This will ensure that investors see immediate gains from the introduction of this major resort,' he added. RAK Properties is focusing on delivery this year, with over 3,000 homes under construction. The company targets the handover of more than 800 homes to customers in 2025. Sales for Solera begin at 10 AM on Saturday, June 21, at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Dubai. Pre-registration is available on the official website.
